Book Review: Decorate for a Party: Stylish and Simple Ideas for Meaningful Gatherings

Cover Photo by: Holly Becker as seen in Decorate for a Party by Heather Becker + Leslie Shewring Published by Jacqui Small LLP 2016

Who doesn't like a well planned, and beautifully executed party? I think it's the one thing that we as design minded, entertaining-loving people want more than anything else when we open the doors to our friends, family, and sometimes even strangers for events in our homes. Decorate for a Party: Stylish and Simple Ideas for Meaningful Gatherings is an awesome field guide to creating lovely tablescapes and memorable moments in any gathering, large or small. 

Written by Holly Becker (who you are likely familiar with from her incredibly popular blog, decor8) and Leslie Shewring (who pens the blog, a creative mint), the book is an assemblage of tips, tricks, projects, and sources that will allow you to easily create tablescapes, drinks (yes, cocktails!) and more that will leave all of your guests waiting for future invitations! 

Photo by: Holly Marder as seen in Decorate for a Party by Heather Becker + Leslie Shewring Published by Jacqui Small LLP 2016

The book is divided into helpful chapters, starting of course, with how to pick your theme, setting the scene, and how to plan your party to be as stress-free as possible. Vivid photography sets the way for the chapters that follow, including one of my very favorite chapters on outdoor gatherings, and this tablescape and party idea they call 'FOREST PARTY'. 

Photo by: Holly Marder as seen in Decorate for a Party by Heather Becker + Leslie Shewring Published by Jacqui Small LLP 2016

Talk about a picnic box lunch! Who wouldn't want to sit down to this? Music playlist suggestions from Becker and Shewring include: David Poe: 'Taffeta', Amy Seeley: 'Walk to the Park', and Laura Veirs: 'Nightingale'. Oh, did I not mention that before? YEAH! There are AWESOME playlist suggestions to take your gathering to the next level! 

Photo by: Janis Nicolay as seen in Decorate for a Party by Heather Becker + Leslie Shewring Published by Jacqui Small LLP 2016

Holly and Leslie really make sure that every sense has an experience with their well curated ideas. What's even better is that the schemes and plans within are not so uniform that they feel disingenuous. You can take all of these wonderful tips and make a party that is lovely, and welcoming, but best of all uniquely you!

After thumbing through all of the 160 inspiring pages of this delightful book, I'm wholly inspired to throw a little gathering myself! I can tell you that I will definitely be using this book as a reference guide and I have no doubt you'll be doing the same! 

Grab your copy here: 

P.S., (if you're following along with the bookcase saga) I finally have glass in the doors! YAY! All that's left is another coat of paint, finish hardware, fabric, and organizing the books! OH BOY!